Watz Virus Removal Guide (+Decrypt .watz files)

Watz Virus – Details

Watz is a destructive software application functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known virus researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.

Watz was developed for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Logically, as quickly as the encryption is effectively achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Watz virus includes its own “.watz” to all the encrypted files. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, once modified by Watz, will be titled as “price_list.xls.watz”. As soon as the encryption is achieved, Watz puts its own unique text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that keep the encrypted files.

The message specified by _readme.txt requesting the random os very similar to the notifications given by other ransomware threats coming from the DJVU family. The caution basically indicates that the files have been secured and the only solution to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is definitely true.

The method to encrypt the files used by Watz is not completely investigated. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be provided an unique decryption key, which is definitely unique. It is very hard to recuperate the information without the appropriate key in location.

“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:

One more peculiarity of the Watz infection is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the complete control by the criminals who have actually released the Watz virus into the world wide web. In order to acquire the key and restore the essential data, the users are informed to contact the scams via email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.

The message likewise states that individuals need to contact the Watz authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the information file encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so the people will acquire a 50% discount, therefore, the ransom amount drops down to $490.

No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we highly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no assurance that these online crooks will keep their promises, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is received into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom frequently does not result in a successful recovery. So, the users might just lose their money for nothing.

Likewise, we urge you not to get in touch with the scams as they advise. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might crack the Watz virus or bring back the data at no charge. Therefore, the only correct decision is to bring back the information from possible backups (if offered).

Virus Summary

Name Watz Ransomware
File Extension watz
Type Ransomware
Family DJVU
Short Description The ransomware encrypts all the data stored on your system and requires a ransom to be paid on your part supposedly to recover your important files.
Symptoms File encryption by the ransomware is performed by means of the AES-256 algorithm (CFB mode) encryption algorithm. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special .watz extension to all the files modified by it.
Distribution Method Adware bundles and software cracks
Similar Infections Lokas, Besub, Nusar
Watz Removal Tool   GridinSoft Anti-Malware
Watz Decryption Tool   Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor

Do not forget that the Web is now full of infections similar to the Watz ransomware. For instance, this particular threat is basically similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging utilities have been developed in order to secure the important information and reveal the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to create the specific key for successful information decryption.

Unless the Watz ransomware is still under the development procedure or has actually got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data by hand. Thus, the only working option to prevent the loss of your essential information is to routinely maintain current backups of all your vital documents.

Another crucial piece of suggestions is to keep the backups on unique storage not linked to your primary device. For instance, you may save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your regular drive is really dangerous, given that the backup might also be secured by the Watz .

Leakages for the Watz ransomware attack.

Watz utilizes many paths to penetrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not certain what specific approach was used in your case, nevertheless, the invasion may occur by means of the following channels:

  • bundling with third-party programs, primarily free software;
  • spam e-mails from the unknown senders;
  • sites offering free hosting;
  • P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.

There are times when the Watz ransomware may camouflage itself as some authentic application, for instance, through the misleading signals demanding installation of some software application upgrade. This is the most typical trick used by the frauds to inject the Watz ransomware files into the system. In this manner users partly participate in its setup, without clearly comprehending the risk.

Additionally, the frauds might send unsolicited spam email with challenging notifies encouraging the people to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for example, those motivating individuals to open certain images, text files, tax files and other information.

No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the harmful links might essentially damage the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player update notices may result in the Watz ransomware seepage. Likewise, downloading the split software may in addition include the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Watz might happen through some Trojan horses that may be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent or even consent.

Avoiding the Watz ransomware attack.

Naturally, there is no outright guarantee that your computer system will be constantly without any malware attacks, nevertheless, we would like to share some helpful pointers with you to make it much safer. Make sure to pay extremely attention while searching the web and specifically while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious email accessories, especially if the sender is not known to you.

Do not forget that specific freeware installer may also consist of some other additional apps in the bundle. These extra applications may be really destructive. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software and your os in general to be constantly properly upgraded.

It is quite rational that downloading cracked apps is unlawful, nevertheless, furthermore, such unapproved software usage may likewise bring major damage to your system. Hence, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the truth that your present anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Watz ransomware is a good reason for you to reconsider your choices and switch to another program that can render the protecting functions on a much better level.

Below please find the quotation from the Watz text file:

ATTENTION!

 Don't worry, you can return all your files!
 All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
 The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
 This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
 What guarantees you have?
 You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
 But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
 You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
 https://we.tl/t-2P5WrE5b9f
 Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
 Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.
 Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.
 Check your e-mail "Spam" or "Junk" folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.


 To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
 restorealldata@firemail.cc

 Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
 gorentos@bitmessage.ch

 Our Telegram account:
 @datarestore

Screenshot of files with “.watz” extension added by the virus:”

Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Watz ransomware from your computer

1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

You can get GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:

  GridinSoft Anti-Malware

2. Double-click on the setup file.

When setup file has finished downloading, double-click on the setup-antimalware-ag.exe file to install GridinSoft Anti-Malware on your computer.

An User Account Control asking you about to allow GridinSoft Anti-Malware to make changes to your device. So, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.

3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.

4. Wait for the GridinSoft Anti-Malware scan to complete.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically start scanning your computer for Win Speedup 2018 and other malicious programs. This process can take a 20-30 minutes, so we suggest you periodically check on the status of the scan process.

5. Click on “Clean Now”.

When the scan has completed, you will see the list of infections that GridinSoft Anti-Malware has detected. To remove them click on the “Clean Now” button in right corner.

Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore watz files

You can download Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:

  Emsisoft Decryptor

  1. Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
  2. Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
  3. By default, the decryptor will pre-populate the locations to decrypt with the currently connected drives and network drives. Additional locations can be added using the Add” button.
  4. Decryptors typically offer various options depending on the particular malware family. The available options are located in the Options tab and can be enabled or disabled there. You can find a detailed list of the available Options below.
  5. After you have added all the locations you want to decrypt to the list, click the “Decrypt” button to start the decryption process. The screen will switch to a status view, informing you about the current process and decryption status of your files
  6. The decryptor will inform you once the decryption process is finished. If you require the report for your personal records, you can save it by clicking the “Save log” button. You can also copy it straight to your clipboard to paste it into emails or forum posts if you are asked to.
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Daniel Zimmermann

Daniel Zimmermann has been writing on security and malware subjects for many years and has been working in the security industry for over 10 years. Daniel was educated at the Saarland University in Saarbrücken, Germany and currently lives in New York.

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